Look, we're going to be upfront about something: I haven't personally slept in one of those beds at the
New Orleans Marriott. But after digging through guest reviews, talking to travelers who have, and spending way too much time researching everything from the rooftop pool to the parking situation, I can tell you this — if location is your number one priority in New Orleans, this hotel is going to be awfully hard to beat.
The New Orleans Marriott sits right on Canal Street at the edge of the French Quarter. We're talking a five-minute walk to Bourbon Street. Ten minutes to Jackson Square. Steps from the streetcar line. For first-time visitors who want to experience the energy of the Big Easy without renting a car or relying on ride-shares constantly, this is about as central as it gets.
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Quick Facts
The Location: Why Everyone Raves About It
Let's start with what guests consistently praise: the location. And I mean consistently. The hotel has a 9.3 location rating from guests, and couples particularly love it for two-person trips.
Here's the thing about New Orleans — the city is incredibly walkable in certain pockets, but you want to be in those pockets. The New Orleans Marriott puts you right on the edge of the French Quarter with Canal Street running along the front. That means you can step out the door and immediately be surrounded by the energy, the music, the food, and the chaos that makes NOLA special.
One guest described it perfectly: "Very central and just a few steps from the French Quarter, the Convention Center, and the Business District". Another raved about being able to "walk to the major tourist attractions… Bourbon Street, St. Louis Cathedral, the Ferries and paddlewheel boats".
The Aquarium of the Americas is a short walk away. Riverboat cruises on the Mississippi are within blocks. The Riverwalk Mall and Canal Street Shops are literally right around the corner.
Honestly? For a first-time visitor who wants to check all the boxes without wasting time in transit, the location alone makes this property worth considering.
The Vibe: Big, Bustling, and Full of Energy
This is not a quiet, intimate boutique hotel. Let's get that out of the way.
The New Orleans Marriott is a 41-story, 1,333-room property. It's massive. It hosts conventions. It's constantly bustling with business travelers, tourists, and event attendees.
The lobby is grand — think red carpet, circular couches, flat-screen TVs, and a large bar at the center of the action. There's non-stop chatter and luggage carts constantly wheeling by. For some people, this energy is part of the appeal. For others, it might feel a little overwhelming.
One reviewer noted that "the sheer size of the hotel makes everything from coffee to elevators a line-waiting game". So if you're looking for a quiet, secluded escape, this might not be your vibe. But if you're the type who thrives on energy and wants to be in the middle of everything? You'll probably love it.
The Rooms: What to Expect
Here's where things get a bit mixed. The rooms have been recently renovated in some cases, and guests report that updated rooms are "outstanding with great views down to the French Quarter and beyond".
Standard rooms come with:
-
- Spacious work areas55-inch flat-screen TVs
- Premium bathroom amenities
- Tea and coffee makers
- Compact refrigerators
However — and this is important — some guests have noted that rooms can feel "dated" and "slightly smaller than expected". The Oyster.com review pointed out that lower floors can be noisy due to busy street traffic below, and some standard rooms are missing conveniences like in-room safes.
The pro tip here? Request a higher floor. Guests consistently mention that higher floors offer "great views of the Mississippi River and city", and they'll also help you avoid street noise.
The M Club: An Exclusive Upgrade
For those who want to elevate their stay, the New Orleans Marriott offers M Club access. This is essentially an upgraded concierge lounge with a speakeasy vibe — think plush leather, soft seating, exposed brick walls, and rich gold accents.
M Club access gets you:
- Complimentary gourmet treats and curated beverages
- A private workspace
- 24/7 access to an exclusive space
Access is complimentary for Platinum, Titanium, and Ambassador Elite Marriott Bonvoy members, and it's also available with select room bookings. If you're a Marriott loyalist or just want a more premium experience, this is worth looking into.
Dining On-Site
You won't go hungry here. The hotel has several dining options:
Canal Street Burger Bar — Premium burgers in the heart of New Orleans, open for lunch and dinner
55 Fahrenheit — A cocktail lounge perfect for handcrafted drinks and light bites
Canal Street Pantry — Pastries, sandwiches, salads, and pizza for a quick bite
5Fifty5 Restaurant — Authentic New Orleans cuisine featuring an award-winning gumbo, open for breakfast and lunch
Starbucks — Because sometimes you just need coffee
One reviewer mentioned that "having the 24/7 market was a lifesaver", so if you're the type who needs snacks at odd hours, you're covered.
The Rooftop Pool: A City View Oasis
Here's a selling point that doesn't get enough attention: the heated outdoor rooftop pool.
Picture this — you've spent the day walking through the French Quarter, eating your weight in beignets, and listening to jazz spill out of doorways. You're hot, you're tired, and you need a reset. The rooftop pool offers "stunning views of the Mississippi River and City skyline", with loungers and parasols for easy relaxation.
It's a peaceful retreat right in the middle of all the chaos. And honestly, that's a pretty great combination.
Parking: Read This Before You Drive
Okay, here's the catch. Parking at the New Orleans Marriott is valet-only and it's not cheap.
Valet parking: $49 per day for regular-sized vehicles, $55 for oversized
There's a height limit of 5'9" for the garage, and parking is limited during special events.
One guest noted that "the only reason I gave a 4/5 on facilities is because I don't think we should have had to pay $25 to park in the hotel parking garage". (And that was $25 — rates have since gone up.)
If you're driving, factor this into your budget. Alternatively, consider whether you really need a car at all. With a location this central and walkable, many guests skip the rental and rely on walking, streetcars, and the occasional ride-share.
What Guests Love — And What They Don't
What guests consistently love:
- The location. It's basically unbeatable
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Clean rooms and common areas
- Great views from higher floors
What guests consistently complain about:
- Pricey valet parking
- Rooms can feel dated compared to the Marriott brand standard
- Lower floors are noisy
- Some rooms lack in-room safes
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Nearby: What to Do Within Walking Distance
The French Quarter is literally at your doorstep, but here are a few specific spots you won't want to miss:
Jackson Square — A 10-minute walk. Home to St. Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, and the Presbytere. It's the heart of the French Quarter and absolutely worth your time.
Café du Monde — About a 10-minute walk. You can't visit New Orleans without having beignets and café au lait at this iconic spot.
Bourbon Street — A 5-minute walk. Love it or hate it, you have to see it at least once.
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas — A short walk. Great for families or anyone who loves marine life.
Frenchmen Street — A bit farther but still walkable. This is where locals go for live music.
Harrah's Casino — Within walking distance.
Caesars Superdome — Near the hotel. If you're in town for a game or concert, you're in the right spot.
Bottom Line: Is the New Orleans Marriott Right for You?
Here's the honest take.
If you're a first-time visitor who wants to be in the middle of everything, doesn't mind a big hotel vibe, and values walkability above all else — the New Orleans Marriott is a solid choice. The location is genuinely hard to beat, the rooftop pool is a nice perk, and the renovated rooms offer comfort and modern amenities.
If you're looking for a quiet, intimate boutique experience, or if you're someone who gets overwhelmed by crowds and convention traffic, this might not be your dream stay. And if you're driving, budget for that valet parking.
But for the vast majority of visitors? The New Orleans Marriott delivers exactly what it promises: a comfortable, conveniently located home base for exploring one of the most vibrant cities in the world.
Ready to book your New Orleans adventure? Check rates and availability at the New Orleans Marriott today — and get ready to experience the Big Easy like never before.
Have you stayed at the New Orleans Marriott? Share your experience in the comments — we'd love to hear what you thought!
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